Established in 1986, ProMedica is a locally owned, nonprofit healthcare organization driven to improve health and wellbeing. Today, ProMedica’s dedicated experts, passionate volunteers and inspired advocates are recognized nationally for consistent, high-level care they provide to their communities. ProMedica considers itself among Toledo's anchor institutions–major businesses, universities and other organizations rooted in the communities they serve. Relocating the company’s headquarters was an opportunity to influence positive change in the city’s urban core and the move downtown had the potential to spark a renaissance in the heart of Toledo.
Rather than build from scratch, two abandoned buildings were chosen to become the new headquarters through adaptive reuse. Abandoned for 32 years, the iconic Daniel Burnham structure was nearly lost forever before ProMedica selected it as the site of its new headquarters. The adjacent Brutalist-era Key Bank building would lend its ground level spaces to new retail, including two restaurants and a YMCA. The restoration of a forgotten city park would renew the green space’s status as the emerald jewel of the downtown.
ProMedica sought to improve operating expenses and provide effective space for administrative employees supporting the health system. The old siloed model of work shifted to an egalitarian work culture including universally sized offices and open work plans promoting wellbeing and collaboration. Gathering spaces in the headquarters offer hospitality and refreshment. The atrium is often transformed into event space after hours. The primary first floor corridor presents a historical timeline to both internal and external audiences.
The project succeeded in bringing over 1,000 jobs to downtown Toledo. Promenade park has hosted over 100 concerts, events and farmers markets (to a formerly food desert community). Over a dozen retailers and new developments have moved downtown as a result of the HQ move, including a 4-star hotel and $30M residential project.